Maths
| Mr C Davis | Head of Maths |
| Mr A Taylor | |
| Mr J P Ward | |
| Mrs L Williams | |
Intent of the Maths Curriculum
The mathematics motto is ‘enjoy and excel’. Every learner, at every level, should enjoy their mathematics and attain at least their (ambitious) target level.
We aim to foster a love of the subject, enabling us to bring up the next generation of mathematicians. Our lessons teach students how to think logically; to prepare them for specific everyday contexts and commonplace careers. We teach students about the beauty to be found in mathematics, beauty found in nature and art. We teach them how to use mathematics creatively, as well as seeing maths as a useable tool to be able to function in society successfully. We link to mortgages, loans, taxes and equip them for successful personal finance. In short, in our brief time with them, we hope to show them that mathematics is everywhere, even in jobs which don’t yet exist!
Learning and doing mathematics leads to good thinking habits and develops the brain in a unique and valuable way. Problem solving skills and critical thinking are key qualities in today’s society and for the future – mathematics is the ideal subject to teach these through. The maths department at The Community College are passionate about mathematics.
Implementation of the Maths Curriculum
Mathematics follows a five-year progressive scheme of work that leads to a GCSE from OCR. There are three strands, which are not necessarily distinct and students will be given work to challenge them, no matter what level they are working at. There are superb resources to supplement well-written text books and all teachers have a wealth of experience to draw on, to get the best out of each child.
Mathematics teachers are always open to new ideas. The department employs kinetic, auditory and visual teaching methods, equipment is used to cement abstract concepts. Students will be found in classrooms working in groups, pairs or individually, depending on the aim of the lesson. Music is often employed in maths teaching; whether children learn songs to help remember important formula or write their own raps, as in a recent Pythagoras lesson.
There are built in assessments throughout the school, alternating their focus, on skills taught and problem solving techniques. Even year 7 are exposed to GCSE examination questions to prepare them for Y11. At key stage 4 learners start to build a portfolio of examination papers and this results in a relaxed, prepared and optimal performance at examination time.
Impact of the Maths Curriculum
Mathematics classrooms always have an excellent atmosphere in them. Whether students are quietly discussing their work in groups or are involved in games such as a boisterous mathematical relay, students enjoy their lessons and being challenged beyond what they thought they were capable of. Learners have become independent and resilient; they will feel safe to be stuck. Student voice certainly supports this.
Uptake of mathematics at A level is high when Bishop’s Castle students move onto the next stage of their education. Often they will go into a maths related degree. Several students have returned when they are settled in their chosen career and given presentations to the school for ‘Aspiration Friday’. Always they mention their maths lessons and how supported they felt.
Students are encouraged to enter national mathematics competitions, either individually or in groups, such as those run by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust (UKMT) and regularly enjoy success at all levels, whether competing on home territory or away.
Lastly, but by no means least, GCSE results are above national average.
Revision Resources
One stop shop for all the revision needs for the upcoming exams!
Prior Preparation Prevents Poor Performance!!